Certified First Assistant

First Assistant

The primary purpose of the First Assistant is to work under the direction of the Surgeon and in collaboration with the Coordinator and team in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations. Assisting to provide a safe operation with optimal patient outcomes.

Reports directly to Nurse Manager and/or Charge Nurse

Responsibilities and Duties:

• An integral member of the team who maintains positive working relationships with patients, families and coworkers inter- and intra-departmentally.
• Ability to perform all surgical skills as a 1st and/or 2nd assistant in surgical procedures.
• In addition to 1st assisting responsibilities may include circulating, scrubbing and other duties assigned within licensed scope of practice.
• Provides surgical site exposure, handling and/or cutting of tissues and providing hemostasis.
• Demonstrates understanding of suture types, skin types and closure of all incisions.
• Serves as a mentor, preceptor and assists in training of others in regards to team development.
• Maintains professional communication skills with physicians, nurses and technicians.
• Compassionate non-judgmental patient caregiver and advocate.
• Possess active listening skills.
• Incorporates healthy workforce in daily practice.
• Call is required for this position.
• Assists the Surgical Technician with setting up the operating room prior to surgery.
• Assists the team with checking surgical machines and equipment.
• Passes instruments to surgeons during surgery.
• Assist with moving the patient to the operating room and position them on the operating table.

The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.

Education and Work Experience:

• Required successful completion of Accredited Surgical First Assistant (RNFA, CFA or CSA) program.
• BLS required, ACLS preferred
• Capable of clear and succinct verbal and written communications; Possess a high level of patience and tenacity; Capable of rapid problem identification and resolution.
• Requires emotional stability and maturity; Must be adaptable to change, be decisive, and demonstrate foresight; Exhibits organizational and leadership ability.

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

• Moderate amount of lifting and positioning of patients and equipment.
• Ability to walk frequently and stand or sit for prolonged periods of time.
• Ability to see objects closely and hear normal sounds with some background noises.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

"Experience Memorial" is more than a slogan, it's the care we provide our patients and it's the commitment to our community and our team members. As a nationally certified Great Place to Work, at Lake Charles Memorial Health System you will have the opportunity to be a part of an organizational culture that supports not only exceptional patient care but also the well-being and professional growth of our employees. Join us and be a part of a team where your contributions are valued, your growth is nurtured, and your success is celebrated.

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